Owwww, what's wrong with my breast?

[stegasaurus]

The entire left hand side of my left breast has gone hard and hurts like hell. Why is this and what should I do about it? I think it has been gradually happening over the course of the day, but it has been DD's christening day and very busy and stressful with about 25 people to feed and entertain in my house that is not big enough for 25 people, so I didn't pay attention until it hurt too much to ignore. It hurts all the time not just when feeding. I really noticed it hurting this afternoon and have mostly fed her on that side since in case it is something that can be cleared by feeding. DD is 6 months old if that is relevant. Please tell me it doesn't need me to see a dr as it will probably take days and days to get an appointment.

Sounds like a blocked duct. You're doing the right thing feeding lots on that side. You could try putting the breast pump on too or a bit of massage to see if it unblocks. Warm facecloth or a warm bath might help discomfort. They are bloody sore! I got one with my 12 week DS at a wedding. It unblocked the next day on the plane home while I was feeding. Oh, the relief! I remember crying because it was sore. Or maybe that was the 3 glasses of wine .

Oh, and look out for redness, shininess or if you feel unwell in yourself. Signs of mastitis- then you do need to see your doctor.

Stand under a very hot shower and massage your breast towards the nipple, like you are hand expressing. You may need antibiotics, if you call the GP you're registered with they should have an out of hours number to call. I think they are also supposed to have urgent appointments available for things like this, so it's worth ringing them.

If you can feed with your DD's chin at the painful part, that may clear it more quickly.

I felt really panicky the first time I got a blocked duct - I worried it was the start of mastitis etc etc. But I fed and fed and fed on that side, lay on my front in a hot bath and massaged it, and it cleared by morning. I found it really hurt but feeding made it hurt in a satisfying way, if that makes sense - does that ring a bell?